Usually, when we are called upon to consider an individual, the idea of election is conjured up. Accordingly, the approach is to seek the best aspirant to perform a certain job or mission, taking into consideration various qualities and factors. However, during this "religious period" commonly referred to as Easter or Holy Week, I would wish for you to seriously and objectively consider or reconsider Jesus Christ, His death, burial and resurrection, and what they all mean for us today. Hopefully, your findings will lead you to make a decision concerning Him.

Consider His death
The Apostle Paul, in his view of Jesus, described Him as one deserving of our attention, admiration and a response. Says Paul, "Who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bond servant, and coming in the likeness of men" (Philippians 2:6, NKJV). Here is a picture of humility in stark contrast to the pride and arrogance of the day. While the religious leaders of the day, known as the Pharisees, sought prominence and honor, Jesus "humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross" (Philippians 2:8, NKJV). Isn't that noteworthy? It is unthinkable for one to give his life for another, but Christ did, and did so willingly, as noted in the New Testament book Titus: "Who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed" (Titus 2:14, NKJV). Considering that we had nothing to offer in exchange, it could only be deduced that He did it because He loved the human race -- His creation, that is you -- that is me. Should not these facts lead us to consider this Christ? I would think so.

Consider His resurrection
It is unknown for one to lay down His life and pick it up. As we know, once you are dead, that is it; for man does not possess the power to raise himself from the grave. Not so with Jesus, for He declared, "I lay down My life that I may take it up again" (John 10:17). So on the first day of the week, when Mary Magdalene and later Simon Peter went to the tomb where He was laid following His death, they found it empty, and rightly so, for Jesus predicted that resurrection would happen on the third day (Matt. 20:19). Now He lives and lives for evermore; but more so He lives that we may live and live eternally. Says Jesus in John 14:19: "Because I live, you will live also." Bill Gaither certainly got it right when he wrote, "Because He lives I can face tomorrow; Because He lives all fear is gone; Because I know He holds the future. And life is worth the living just because He lives."

What will you do with Him?
Need I further convince you that this risen Lord is to be considered? It is more than consideration that is required. Hopefully, your consideration of the facts presented will lead you to accept Him and the resurrection power He offers freely, enabling you to live a life of victory, purpose and meaning. On the other hand, to spurn Him is to invite death, doom, misery and failure. He is the Son of God -- God Himself clothed in humanity. Therefore, He says, "I have come that they (you) may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly" (John 10:10). It is clear that this life can be had now. The promise has a now and later fulfillment. Isn't that wonderful?
I do not know of a life that equates to life in Christ notwithstanding riches, pleasures and instant gratification. These can only satisfy for a time and go so far, but that which the resurrected Lord gives is eternal. Put another way, He gives security, peace, forgiveness, protection and eternal life. In fact, He gives better health, riches, in some instances, and if not, He ensures that our bills are paid and needs are met. He provides a 24/7 connection that is always open with no dropped calls despite His billions of children. I do not know about you, but I value my Lord and have come to realize that I cannot do without Him -- no, not for a day. Like Thomas I declare, "My Lord and My God!" Do you know Him? If not, why not seek Him today? To know Him is to experience a resurrection of sorts today and always.

-- Pastor Leonard Johnson,
president of the Atlantic Caribbean Union Mission of Seventh-day Adventists

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